Axe starts to swing at The Times

Rumours abound across the editorial floor about who has received their marching orders. According to one insider, people have been told that if they haven't been informed by 1pm then they will not be among the departed.

However, one junior reporter will not know his/her fate until tomorrow. Although I have received various tips, here is the official News International response to a list I sent the paper's spokeswoman:

"We never comment on staff leaving The Times but I can tell you that there are several inaccuracies in that list."

I love it when newspaper PRs act like every other corporate body's PRs by refusing to offer any help to journalists making polite factual inquiries.

So, to avoid embarrassment, until people individually confirm that they are being required to leave, I cannot confirm the names. However, I can say that among them are long-standing and high-profile staff.